Local Notes: Credit Union becomes first Autism Champion in Erris.

Credit Union becomes first Autism Champion in Erris.

Erris Credit Union celebrated becoming the first organisation in Erris to achieve the status of Autism Friendly Champion earlier this month. In conjunction with Belmullet Autism Friendly Town Committee, the staff of the Credit Union have undertaken training and made adjustments to their premises to ensure the provision of a more inclusive service for its members. They have installed a privacy pod where members can conduct their business in a quiet space and have created a walk through video of the building so members know what to expect before visiting, which is available on their social media.

This achievement is not just an award; it is a milestone for Belmullet and a meaningful step towards creating a more understanding and inclusive community. While Erris Credit Union is the first Autism Friendly Champion in Erris, many other businesses and organisations within the barony are also committed to becoming more inclusive and are currently partaking in training and creating changes with the support of Belmullet Autism Friendly Town Committee (BAFT).

Emily Togher, BAFT chairperson, has welcomed this achievement and said “We are very proud to recognise our first Autism Friendly Champion in the Erris area, Erris Credit Union. Their commitment to accessibility, understanding and community leadership sets a powerful example for every business in our town. By taking these meaningful steps, by incorporating minor accommodations into their workplace, they are helping to build a community where autistic individuals and their families feel welcomed, supported and understood.” “It's hugely encouraging to see an organisation like Erris Credit Union make a meaningful effort in becoming an Autism Friendly Champion for the Belmullet Autism Friendly Town initiative," William Nestor, AsIAm Autism Friendly Towns Manager. "Credit Unions are an integral part of the local fabric of a community and we hope many more champions follow in their footsteps in the locality. Making sensory, predictability and communication adaptations to meet the needs of the autistic community, as well as taking training on autism understanding & acceptance, is the essence of the AFT programme, which is now being delivered to 49 communities across the country by AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity. We look forward to continue in working with the incredible volunteers and advocates of the Belmullet AFT Committee as they journey their way towards securing Autism Friendly status for the community."

Belmullet Autism Friendly Town is a voluntary committee which came together with the aim of helping Erris become a more inclusive place for members of the community and visitors alike. If you would like more information, or would like to get involved, please contact belmulletautismfriendlytown@gmail.com or contact us through our social media “Belmullet Autism Friendly Town” on Instagram and Facebook.

Annual St. Stephen’s Day Match

The annual St Stephen’s Day match between Roy v Doohoma will take place at The Banks, Doohoma with kick off at 1pm.

It’s that time again. The legendary St. Stephen’s Day showdown between ROY and Doohoma returns, and you won’t want to miss it. This brilliant community tradition always brings great fun, fierce rivalry, and lots of laughs and it’s all in support of S.N. Dhumha Thuama, who hugely appreciate the continued support year after year.

Whether you’re watching, cheering, or attempting to run off the Christmas dinner, it’s the perfect excuse to get out in the fresh air, shake off the cobwebs, and warm the bones with a hot cuppa or two.

Half-time entertainment will see the amazing Ladies will once again take to the pitch for a penalty shoot-out. This is always a crowd favourite.

If you want to play for ROY, contact Trevor Mangan or if you wish to play for Doohoma, contact Sean Ginty. All support is massively appreciated so come along, bring the family, and enjoy a great day out for a brilliant cause.